Today's Featured Books
Divine Communication by Billie Woodruff
Tales of Fantasy, Horror & the Paranormal from David W. Thompson
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of David W. Thompson, author of fantasy, horror, and paranormal stories and novels that can be described as habitually dark, sometimes bloody, and always original. Read on to learn more about his writing and his background.
★★★★★ "There is a darkness that whispers through the narrative, a sense of the tragic that is both unsettling and attractive...gripping and pulsating." ~Reader's Favorite on Sister Witch
Sister Witch
Book 1 in the Legends of the Family Dyer seriesGenre: Historical Fantasy, Paranormal & Urban Fantasy
4.4 stars, 111 ratings on Goodreads
Ebook: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Moll Dyer prays she can leave her troubles behind when she immigrates to the new world, but a paranormal threat grows, and soon follows her across the ocean to Maryland.
Colonial life in the Old Line state was tough on both man and woman. Hunger, disease, Indian attacks, and drought tested the resolve of the settlers daily. But troubles for the Dyers included the threat of a succubus on a mission! Will the demonic call initiated by her family prove too much to resist as she labors to rebuild her life in a distant land?
The legend of Moll Dyer originated in earliest colonial Maryland. Despite 300 years of civilization, and scientific reason, Moll's name is still often heard there, especially around campfires late at night, or as a warning to misbehaving little people. Her spirit is often seen as a wisp of unnatural fog in the swampy woodlands near her homestead, with her half wolf companion at her side. This is her story.
Praise for Sister Witch
"A story that powerfully demonstrates the irresistible pull of evil and allows the reader to follow one woman's journey as she struggles to find a suitable response to her family's evil and mysterious legacy." ~Readers' Favorite
"Engaging prose with a suitably historical feel." ~TCK Review
Call of the Falconer
Genre: Science Fiction, Mythology & Folk Tales, Dystopian Science Fiction4.0 stars, 21 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $5.99
Ebook: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
You knew this was coming. I guess we all did...
In a post-apocalyptic world, teen-aged Jeremy comes of age even as the addict Morgan tries to reclaim his lost manhood...and his forgotten humanity.
Jeremy's younger sister Alicia holds a teddy bear in her arms...and the heart of a lion beating in her chest. The monsters are real, both the human ones and the perversions of man. In the old world's rubble, an ancient legend inspires a new hero to rise, but will our intrepid trio survive until his emergence?
Call of the Falconer is a dystopian novella creating a new mythology, as the forgotten of society become its heroes.
Praise for Call of the Falconer
"A dystopian novella for young and old alike." ~Twisted Quill Press
'Possum Stew
Genre: Fantasy Anthologies & Short Stories, Dark Fantasy Horror4.5 stars, 18 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $16.99
Ebook: $6.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
This collection of short stories begins with the New Year and follows the seasons through all the major holidays. From dark tales inspired by ancient mythology to those flavored with cutting-edge technology, these stories are impossible to forget or put down.
Brace yourself for a journey back in time to face a Native American Wendigo! Or let the creatures hidden in the dark woods stir your blood. Fairies are sweet, gentle creatures...right? Perhaps the terrors of day-to-day life are enough. (You'll find them here too.) 'Possum Stew is the sure cure to quench your thirst for dark adventure.
Praise for 'Possum Stew
★★★★★ "Dark poignant short stories with holiday themes." ~Amazon Germany Review
About the Author
David W. Thompson is an award-winning author, an Army veteran, and a graduate of the University of Maryland, University College. He is a member of the Horror Writers' Association, the Mystery Writers of America, and the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association. He lives in picturesque southern Maryland, blessed with nearby family and dear old friends. When he isn't writing, Dave enjoys time with his family, kayaking, fishing, hiking, archery, gardening, winemaking, and woodcarving. Learn more at dthompsonwrites.com.
Free online Sunday: The Back Room
Free online: The Back Room. Join authors Ashley Elston, Michael Koryta, K.T. Nguyen, and Kaira Rouda for this virtual cocktail party. The program begins with brief introductions, a game of 20 questions, and book recommendations from the authors. Attendees are then divided into breakout rooms that will be visited by each author. Everyone’s video is turned on and their mics are open so you can chat with the authors about whatever you like. Sunday, May 5, 6 - 8 PM CDT.
"May is the month of expectation, the month of wishes, the month of hope." ~Emily Brontë
Fashion Fatale by Nathan Finley
FREE - Restoring Miss Hastings by Edwina Kiernan
Harriet Hastings has nowhere to turn. After losing her parents, she is penniless and alone. When a relative arranges for her to live with strangers, she must also leave her home. Edmund Derringer is on a mission to recover family heirlooms he lost to cover his debts. The last thing he needs is to be saddled with his cousin’s ward. But when outside forces threaten, Harriet and Edmund must examine what they believe about one another and their goals for the future. "An amazing story of two people struggling to make their lives better." ~Goodreads Review. 4.2 stars, 46 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW /
Her Bold Proposition by Matilda Grei
Mama Si's Paradise by D.N. Hoxa
In this romantic fantasy, the girls in Mama Si’s Paradise live like royalty. Real-life princesses. "Dolls" she calls them. She promises them freedom, power, and magic—all lies in an effort to find a bride for one of the five Evernight brothers who rule the Seven Isles, which is all that is left of the world of magic on Earth. They’re powerful vampires, hungry for new blood, desperate for an heir, each more breathtakingly beautiful than the last—and all of them trying to make Mama Si's "doll" theirs. 4.6 stars, 20 ratings on Goodreads. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /
Reality Barks by Kit James
FREE - The Wizard and the Witch Queen by Lee Ellis
Farm Family by Jane Lee Rankin
Memoir and Creative Nonfiction
The Cultist's Wife by BJ Sikes
Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror
FREE - The Age of the End by Tim Facciola
Embers of Shadow by Lloyd Jeffries
Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror
Spotlight on The Bourbon Books: A "charming and steamy" RomCom series from Allison Martine
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Bourbon Books, a fun romantic comedy series from author Allison Martine. To make the series even more appealing, you can purchase each title in e-book format for only 99 cents (free via Kindle Unlimited)! Read on to learn more about the series and the author.
★★★★★ "Realistic romance with sexy moments and delicious humor." ~Amazon Review of dibs, Book 1 of The Bourbon Books
dibs
Book 1 in The Bourbon Books seriesGenre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.23 stars, 137 ratings on Goodreads
4.2 stars, 130 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Not tonight, Olivia.
Olivia’s ex-husband shut her down so many times before the cheating bastard left her that Olivia lost count. She didn’t realize she’d also lost the ability to banter, interpret body language, or accept that a man could find her desirable. None of that should matter when she leaves for a two-week training for her new job with the Ranchers, an outdoorsy nonprofit, but when her co-worker adds ‘halter top’ and ‘bikini’ to the official pack list, she has no idea what to expect on this trip.
It certainly wasn’t a perky blonde roommate who thinks their training is like spring break, but with a paycheck. It wasn’t the after-hours hot tub. It absolutely wasn’t the man with a rumble for a laugh who shows up on her flight and introduces himself as the colleague she didn’t know would be her companion for the next two weeks.
When blondie calls dibs on that same colleague, Olivia just wants to stay out of her way, but her colleague has ideas of his own. Ideas which involve Olivia, the hot tub, and shared sips of bourbon.
Praise for dibs
- Best RomCom, N.N. Light Book Award
- Finalist - Romance, Kindle Book Awards
- "A romance novel that will make you smile and swoon." ~Reedsy.
- ★★★★★ "Cute contemporary romance!" ~Goodreads Review
- ★★★★★ "A Hint of spice, a dollop of barbeque sauce, and a glass of good bourbon." ~Amazon Review
Since September
Book 2 in The Bourbon Books seriesGenre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.29 stars, 49 ratings on Goodreads
4.3 stars, 44 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $13.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Most brides dream of planning every last detail of their wedding. Not Olivia Markham. She’d been down the aisle once already and regretted that decision, along with every other judgment call connected with her unfaithful ex. But she also never planned on falling for Adam Burkhardt, who proposed sooner than anyone could have guessed.
When Adam suggests letting their mothers suss out the particulars for their big day, Olivia agrees, hoping it will assuage their mothers’ trepidation towards their upcoming union. She even relents to having a bachelorette weekend, for the sake of her friends. Olivia shall endure more nuptial nonsense and play bride once again.
They should have eloped.
Praise for Since September
- ★★★★★ "A fun-filled, delightful, and swoon-worthy sequel!" ~Amazon Review
- ★★★★★ "An amusing and easy read romance tale." ~Bedside Book Review
Move On, Melinda
Book 3 in The Bourbon Books seriesGenre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.62 stars, 21 ratings on Goodreads
4.7 stars, 25 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
There are worse things than being a bridesmaid at your best friend’s wedding. Hitting on the groom? Ancient history. Hitting on the best man? Regrettable but forgettable. Getting pawned off on some random guy who came as his mom’s date? Could be worse. But more happened the night of the Burkhardt wedding than Melinda is ready to admit.
Now, Melinda is determined to move forward and leave all that behind. She just has to survive the Ranchers’ All Staff Retreat, carpooling with her meddling boss, the fresh-from-their honeymoon newlyweds, and a certain unexpected passenger she’d hoped to avoid for the weekend—and the memories he stirs up.
Praise for Move On, Melinda
- ★★★★★ "A charming, well-written modern romance." ~Goodreads Review
- ★★★★★ "The Bourbon Books keep getting better and better...and sexier and sexier!" ~Amazon Review
Climb the Salmon Ladder
Book 4 in The Bourbon Books seriesGenre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.69 stars, 16 ratings on Goodreads
4.6 stars, 17 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Jamie Wallace was settled, not settling. Good job, great friends, and a glass of wine was all she needed for her little slice of heaven. Sure, everyone around her was pairing off like they’d just announced it was time to board Noah’s Ark, but Jamie never minded a little rain. But when a curveball out of left field blindsides her, knocking her long game out the window, she’ll have to scramble—and pack her bags.
Bolstered by unlikely allies, she’s got to prove herself, and keep her eye on the prize. That same eye needs to stop wandering to check out the competition. She’s come to fight for the life she’s earned, not share after-hours Malbec in her hotel room.
She’ll summon everything she has—from her no-nonsense attitude to her years of true leadership—to manifest her destiny. No matter what. Even if she’s no longer sure what that destiny should be.
Praise for Climb the Salmon Ladder
- ★★★★★ "The best installment in this romance series yet." ~Amazon Review
- ★★★★★ "Heart, humor, and just enough heat to make us impatiently wonder when the next book will drop." ~Goodreads Review
The Bourbon Books
Get the entire series of four books for Kindle for $3.96!
About the Author
Allison Martine is a multi-genre novelist. She hosts the literary podcast, TO THE MOON, ALLISON, and co-hosts the live weekly video podcast, VOX VOMITUS, interviewing bestselling authors and other creatives. Learn more at afictionalhubbard.com, sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow Allison online:
Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction
Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction. Join the hosts of this popular web show as they interview bestselling authors. Tonight's guest: Janet Skeslien Charles, a New York Times and international bestselling author whose work has been translated into 37 languages. Wednesday, May 1, 7 PM EST.
"Books and ideas are like blood; they need to circulate, and they keep us alive." ~Janet Skeslien Charles, The Paris Library
FREE - Engaging Miss Shaw by Rachel Knowles
Bath 1815: All John Derringer wants is to disappear into his research. But after his brother's death, he must take on the family estate and care for his orphaned nephew. When Evelina Shaw hears of Mr. Derringer’s need for a governess, she seizes the opportunity to escape from her sister’s matchmaking. But as her life becomes entwined with the Derringer family, neither she nor John can predict the consequences. "A fabulous storyline with twists, transformations, and tender romance." ~Amazon Review. 4.5 stars, 67 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW /
A Shoe is to Chew by Siski Kalla
The Icehouse by J.J. Richards
Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror
Three Shades Called Horace by Jinx James
Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror
Magic and Miracle Multi Author Anthology
The 2 Keys To Permanent Weight Loss by Ken Flett
Finding Happiness by Boyd London
Memoir and Creative Nonfiction
What is it really like to be in the military? In this autobiography, Boyd London, tells how he found happiness through his experience in the military in the heat of Saudi Arabia, in the harsh cold of Alaska, after a devastating car accident, and no matter what he faced. From $7 SHOP NOW /
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr by Caroline Helenasdotter
New release: The Sister Knot from Ann S. Epstein & Vine Leaves Press
Congratulations to Ann S. Epstein and Vine Leaves Press on the release of The Sister Knot, a poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the enduring strength of the ties that bind.
★★★★★ "A moving, thorough, and entrancing novel about how two orphaned young Berlin women become each other’s family during and after the Holocaust." ~Simone Yehuda, contributing author of The Ones Who Remember: Second-Generation Voices of the Holocaust
The Sister Knot
NEW RELEASE: April 30, 2024Genre: Historical Fiction
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $5.99
In the heart-wrenching tapestry of The Sister Knot, an enthralling tale unfolds, weaving the resilient bond of a female friendship against the backdrop of history. Set amidst the shadows of World War II, Liane and Frima, survivors of Holocaust trauma, find solace and strength in each other. Through cunning, theft, and prostitution, they navigate the unforgiving streets of Berlin and post-war existence.
Brought to the United States by a Jewish refugee agency, their destinies diverge, yet the unbreakable thread of their connection persists. Frima, the adopted sister, seemingly lives the American dream—excelling in academics, a prestigious college, a successful husband, intelligent children, and a fulfilling teaching career. On the other side of fate, Liane, thrust into a group home, rejects the conventional path, embracing a life of dead-end jobs, relinquishing a daughter for adoption, and finding solace in her art even amidst the struggles that lead her to prison.
Through six decades marked by drifting apart and fierce reunions, their trajectories reverse, challenging preconceived notions about destiny.
The Sister Knot beckons with its poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the enduring strength of the ties that bind. Join Liane and Frima on their journey through the tapestry of time, where the echoes of the past resonate in the unspoken language of sisterhood.
Praise for The Sister Knot
★★★★★ "A rich exploration of how individuals can emerge from challenging beginnings, finding strength and comfort in each other, despite the different paths their lives take... beautifully written and emotionally charged." ~Deepak Singh, author of Yaad Mohalla
★★★★★ "Liane follows a difficult path that includes an out-of-wedlock child and jail. Her close friend, Frima, is adopted into a loving family looking for a traditional daughter to bring them joy and grandchildren... The arc of their story will remain with readers long after the last page." ~Beth Kirschner, author of Copper Divide
★★★★★ "A painting of the intense, complex, difficult and joyful rhythms and layers of women’s relationships to one another." ~Rusty Allen, author of Ella’s War
About the Author
Ann S. Epstein writes novels, stories, memoir, poems, and essays. Her awards include a Pushcart Prize nomination for creative nonfiction, the Walter Sullivan prize in fiction, an Editors’ Choice selection by Historical Novel Review, and St. Lawrence Book Award Finalist nomination. Ann’s fiction credits include the novels On the Shore, Tazia and Gemma, A Brain. A Heart. The Nerve., The Great Stork Derby, and One Person’s Loss. Her work also appears in North American Review, Sewanee Review, PRISM International, Ascent, The Long Story, and elsewhere. In addition to writing, she has a doctorate in developmental psychology, a Master of Fine Arts in fiber, and certification as an end-of-life doula. To learn more, visit asewovenwords.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.
New Giveaway: Win $100 in Books!
New Giveaway: Win $100 in Books. Enter the LitNuts Spring Giveaway for a chance to win $100 in books. Earn entry points by signing up for the newsletter (yes, you can earn points by signing up even if you're already signed up!), visiting LitNuts.com, following us on social media, retweeting, and more. Deadline for entry is May 31. Winner will be announced June 1.
"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." ~Richard Steele